Fake virus alerts and pop-ups: what to do
Close a suspicious alert, stop unwanted browser notifications and know when to get further help.
Do not call a number in a virus pop-up, pay for its suggested fix, install its software or grant remote access. Microsoft says its error and warning messages never include a phone number.
Try these steps in order
After each step, check whether the problem is fixed. You can stop as soon as it works.
Pause before clicking
An alarming web page is not proof that your device has a virus. Avoid its buttons, links and phone numbers. Open your installed security app yourself if you want to check the device.
Close the browser safely
Try closing the tab or browser using the normal browser controls. If it is trapped in a full-screen loop, on Windows use Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager and end the browser task. On Mac use Option + Command + Esc and Force Quit. This can lose unsaved browser work.
Do not restore the suspicious page
When reopening the browser, avoid restoring the tab that showed the alert. If alerts keep arriving in the corner of the screen, check website notification permissions next.
Block unwanted Chrome notifications
On a computer, open Chrome Settings → Privacy and security → Site settings → Notifications. Find the unfamiliar site under the sites allowed to send notifications and block it. See Google’s linked instructions for other devices.
Check for unwanted software
Update your operating system and installed security software, then run a scan. Google’s guide below covers persistent pop-ups, unwanted extensions and changed browser settings. Removing a notification does not by itself prove a device is clean.
If you already interacted with the scam
If you installed software or gave remote access, stop the session and use Microsoft’s recovery guidance or trusted support. Change exposed passwords from a trusted device. If you paid or shared financial details, contact your bank through its official app or a known number.
Still not working?
A blocked notification may solve the alerts. Persistent redirects, unknown software or remote access need further investigation. Choose support independently of the alert.
Explain what you clicked, installed or shared. Never give a helper an account password or one-time code. Use official support or independently checked local help.
Official instructions
Use the instructions for your exact model and software version. These links open in a new tab.
How we chose these topics
These are five common problem areas highlighted in Which?’s August/September 2026 tech support report (opens in a new tab). We reviewed evidence published during 1 April–30 September 2026. We could not verify a complete UK search-volume ranking for that period, so these pages are an editorial selection, not a measured top five. Troubleshooting steps were checked against the official sources above.